Haringey politicians accused of 'politicking on the rates' 03/07/07

Haringey Conservatives can exclusively reveal how much money is spent by Haringey Council on employing staff, including spin-doctors, for Labour and Lib Dem politicians at the cost of the taxpayer. Conservatives accuse their opponents on 'politicking on the rates'.

Under the Freedom of Information Act, the Council has been forced to reveal that £479,300 is currently being spent on "Cabinet/ Leader's/ Executive/ Opposition support and research staff "

Justin Hinchcliffe, Chairman of Tottenham Conservatives, commented: "At a time when our political masters are axing community centres and day centres for the elderly, Labour and the Lib Dems have spent almost half a £million between them on political staff, including spin doctors. Party political work which should be performed by individual councillors is being carried out by council staff paid for by the taxpayer.  We're not surprised that Labour is 'politicking on the rates' but local residents may be surprised that Lynne Featherstone's Lib Dems are at it too. ".

Hinchcliffe also discovered that one council officer, in a Politically restricted post, has been reprimanded for indulging in local party politics, thought to be campaigning for the Labour Party.

ENDs.